Ridvan Yilmaz returns after injury – Rangers confirmed XI v Kilmarnock
Rangers manager Philippe Clement has named an unchanged starting XI for their must-win clash against Kilmarnock at Ibrox on Sunday 5 May.
As confirmed via X ahead of kick-off, the Gers boss has decided to keep with the same side that started last week’s win at St. Mirren.
Ridvan Yilmaz returns to the matchday squad with a place on the bench after the 22-year-old missed the last five league matches with a hamstring injury, whilst John Lundstram starts despite some calling for him to be dropped.
Jack Butland retains his place between the sticks, James Tavernier leads the Gers as skipper and Cyriel Dessers spearheads the attack after his vital winner last Sunday.
Will Rangers get the Ibrox win they need?
Rangers will be hoping their momentum will have shifted after last week’s crucial win at St. Mirren.
The narrow victory at the SMISA Stadium keeps Clement’s men within touch of Celtic, who made no mistake on Saturday with a 3-0 beating of Hearts.
Make no mistake – despite several players missing for the hosts, they are thoroughly expected to secure the points over fourth-placed Kilmarnock, despite some quarters – namely Tam McManus – declaring that Rangers may not handle the pressure.
Kris Boyd – who is well regarded in both camps – said he “can’t lose” when asked on his thoughts about the ‘Kris Boyd derby’ by Julian Warren on Sky Sports on Saturday – but neither can Rangers.
Boyd was covering Celtic’s victory at the time, and next weekend’s Old Firm could be the painful day Gers fans are dreading if the Killie game doesn’t go to plan. Any less than victory and Celtic can win the title against their bitter rivals at Celtic Park.
It’s do or die for the blue half of Glasgow.
In other Rangers news, the club may seek another loan move for Oscar Cortes instead of buying the winger.
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